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Abstract
Bacterial infections (BIs) are the most common precipitating event of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) and a frequent complication of ACLF. BIs aggravate the course of the syndrome and are associated with higher mortality rates. For this reason, BIs should be promptly diagnosed and treated in all patients with ACLF. The administration of an appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy improves survival in patients with BIs and ACLF and is the cornerstone of treatment. Due to the spread of antibiotic resistance worldwide, the empirical treatment should cover multi-drug-resistant organisms. Herein we reviewed the current evidence about the management of BIs in ACLF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Incicco
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, Padova 35128, Italy
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, Padova 35128, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piano
- Department of Medicine (DIMED), Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology (UIMH), University Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, Padova 35128, Italy.
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2
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The Mechanisms of Systemic Inflammatory and Immunosuppressive Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure and Application Prospect of Single-Cell Sequencing. J Immunol Res 2022; 2022:5091275. [PMID: 36387424 PMCID: PMC9646330 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5091275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a complex clinical syndrome, and patients often have high short-term mortality. It occurs with intense systemic inflammation, often accompanied by a proinflammatory event (such as infection or alcoholic hepatitis), and is closely related to single or multiple organ failure. Liver inflammation begins when innate immune cells (such as Kupffer cells (KCs)) are activated by binding of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) from pathogenic microorganisms or damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) of host origin to their pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). Activated KCs can secrete inflammatory factors as well as chemokines and recruit bone marrow-derived cells such as neutrophils and monocytes to the liver to enhance the inflammatory process. Bacterial translocation may contribute to ACLF when there are no obvious precipitating events. Immunometabolism plays an important role in the process (including mitochondrial dysfunction, amino acid metabolism, and lipid metabolism). The late stage of ACLF is mainly characterized by immunosuppression. In this process, the dysfunction of monocyte and macrophage is reflected in the downregulation of HLA-DR and upregulation of MER tyrosine kinase (MERTK), which weakens the antigen presentation function and reduces the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. We also describe the specific function of bacterial translocation and the gut-liver axis in the process of ACLF. Finally, we also describe the transcriptomics in HBV-ACLF and the recent progress of single-cell RNA sequencing as well as its potential application in the study of ACLF in the future, in order to gain a deeper understanding of ACLF in terms of single-cell gene expression.
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Alabsawy E, Shalimar, Sheikh MF, Ballester MP, Acharya SK, Agarwal B, Jalan R. Overt hepatic encephalopathy is an independent risk factor for de novo infection in cirrhotic patients with acute decompensation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2022; 55:722-732. [PMID: 35106777 PMCID: PMC9303427 DOI: 10.1111/apt.16790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The occurrence of overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) is associated with increased mortality. HE is commonly precipitated by infection, but whether HE predisposes to new infection is unclear. This study aimed to test if OHE predisposes to de novo infection during hospitalisation and its association with short-term mortality. AIMS AND METHODS Seven hundred and fifty-nine consecutive patients were identified at two institutions from prospectively maintained clinical databases of cirrhotic patients admitted with acute decompensation (AD). Infection and HE data were collected on the day of admission, and the occurrence of de novo infections was assessed for 28 days after admission. EASL-CLIF organ failure criteria were used to determine the presence of organ failures. Multivariable analysis using the logistic regression model was used to assess predictors of 28-day mortality and de novo infection. RESULTS Patients were divided into four groups; no baseline OHE or infection (n = 352); OHE with no baseline Infection (n = 221); no OHE but baseline infection (n = 100) and OHE with baseline infection (n = 86). On multivariate analyses, OHE (OR, 1.532 [95% CI, 1.061-2.300, P = 0.024]), and admission to ITU (OR, 2.303 [95% CI, 1.508-3.517, P < 0.001]) were independent risk factors for de novo infection. 28-day mortality was 25.3%, 60.2%, 55.0% and 72.1% in the 4-groups respectively. Age, INR and creatinine were independently predictive of mortality. The presence of overt HE, infection, coagulation, kidney, circulatory, respiratory and liver failures were significantly associated with higher mortality. CONCLUSION OHE is an independent risk factor for de novo infection in cirrhotic patients with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Alabsawy
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK,Faculty of MedicineAlexandria UniversityAlexandriaEgypt
| | - Shalimar
- Department of GastroenterologyAll India Institute of Medical SciencesNew DelhiIndia
| | - Mohammed Faisal Sheikh
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Maria Pilar Ballester
- Digestive Disease DepartmentHospital Clínico Universitario de ValenciaValenciaSpain,INCLIVA Biomedical Research InstituteValenciaSpain
| | - Subrat Kumar Acharya
- Department of GastroenterologyAll India Institute of Medical SciencesNew DelhiIndia,KIIT UniversityBhubaneshwarOdishaIndia
| | - Banwari Agarwal
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK,Intensive Care UnitRoyal Free HospitalLondonUK
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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4
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Albillos A, Martin-Mateos R, Van der Merwe S, Wiest R, Jalan R, Álvarez-Mon M. Cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 19:112-134. [PMID: 34703031 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-021-00520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The term cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction (CAID) comprises the distinctive spectrum of immune alterations associated with the course of end-stage liver disease. Systemic inflammation and immune deficiency are the key components of CAID. Their severity is highly dynamic and progressive, paralleling cirrhosis stage. CAID involves two different immune phenotypes: the low-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype and the high-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype. The low-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype can be found in patients with compensated disease or clinical decompensation with no organ failure. In this phenotype, there is an exaggerated immune activation but the effector response is not markedly compromised. The high-grade systemic inflammatory phenotype is present in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure, a clinical situation characterized by decompensation, organ failure and high short-term mortality. Along with high-grade inflammation, this CAID phenotype includes intense immune paralysis that critically increases the risk of infections and worsens prognosis. The intensity of CAID has important consequences on cirrhosis progression and correlates with the severity of liver insufficiency, bacterial translocation and organ failure. Therapies targeting the modulation of the dysfunctional immune response are currently being evaluated in preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Albillos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain. .,Departamento de Medicina y Especialidades Médicas, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rosa Martin-Mateos
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Medicina y Especialidades Médicas, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Schalk Van der Merwe
- Laboratory of Hepatology, Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Aging (CHROMETA), University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, University Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK.,European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Melchor Álvarez-Mon
- Departamento de Medicina y Especialidades Médicas, Universidad de Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitario Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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5
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Occhinegro A, Wong CY, Chua BY, Jackson DC, McKinley MJ, McAllen RM, Martelli D. The endogenous inflammatory reflex inhibits the inflammatory response to different immune challenges in mice. Brain Behav Immun 2021; 97:371-375. [PMID: 34333113 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The splanchnic anti-inflammatory pathway, the efferent arm of the endogenous inflammatory reflex, has been shown to suppress the acute inflammatory response of rats to systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Here we show for the first time that this applies also to mice, and that the reflex may be engaged by a range of inflammatory stimuli. Experiments were performed on mice under deep anaesthesia. Half the animals were subjected to bilateral section of the splanchnic sympathetic nerves, to disconnect the splanchnic anti-inflammatory pathway, while the remainder underwent a sham operation. Mice were then challenged intravenously with one of three inflammatory stimuli: the toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 agonist, LPS (60 µg/kg), the TLR-3 agonist Polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C, 1 mg/kg) or the TLR-2 and -6 agonist dipalmitoyl-S-glyceryl cysteine (Pam2cys, 34 µg/kg). Ninety minutes later, blood was sampled by cardiac puncture for serum cytokine analysis. The splanchnic anti-inflammatory reflex action was assessed by comparing cytokine levels between animals with cut versus those with intact splanchnic nerves. A consistent pattern emerged: Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) levels in response to all three challenges were raised by prior splanchnic nerve section, while levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 10 (IL-10) were reduced. The raised TNF:IL-10 ratio after splanchnic nerve section indicates an enhanced inflammatory state when the reflex is disabled. These findings show for the first time that the inflammatory reflex drives a coordinated anti-inflammatory action also in mice, and demonstrate that its anti-inflammatory action is engaged, in similar fashion, by inflammatory stimuli mimicking a range of bacterial and viral infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Occhinegro
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science (DIBINEM), University of Bologna - Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chinn Yi Wong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Brendon Y Chua
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - David C Jackson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, at The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Michael J McKinley
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Robin M McAllen
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Davide Martelli
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Science (DIBINEM), University of Bologna - Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna, Italy; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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Lankadeva YR, May CN, McKinley MJ, Neeland MR, Ma S, Hocking DM, Robins-Browne R, Bedoui S, Farmer DGS, Bailey SR, Martelli D, McAllen RM. Sympathetic nerves control bacterial clearance. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15009. [PMID: 32929135 PMCID: PMC7490383 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A neural reflex mediated by the splanchnic sympathetic nerves regulates systemic inflammation in negative feedback fashion, but its consequences for host responses to live infection are unknown. To test this, conscious instrumented sheep were infected intravenously with live E. coli bacteria and followed for 48 h. A month previously, animals had undergone either bilateral splanchnic nerve section or a sham operation. As established for rodents, sheep with cut splanchnic nerves mounted a stronger systemic inflammatory response: higher blood levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 but lower levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10, compared with sham-operated animals. Sequential blood cultures revealed that most sham-operated sheep maintained high circulating levels of live E. coli throughout the 48-h study period, while all sheep without splanchnic nerves rapidly cleared their bacteraemia and recovered clinically. The sympathetic inflammatory reflex evidently has a profound influence on the clearance of systemic bacterial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yugeesh R Lankadeva
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Clive N May
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Michael J McKinley
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | | | - Shuai Ma
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Dianna M Hocking
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne At the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Roy Robins-Browne
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne At the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sammy Bedoui
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne At the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David G S Farmer
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Simon R Bailey
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Davide Martelli
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Robin M McAllen
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 30 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia.
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7
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Mendoza YP, Rodrigues SG, Bosch J, Berzigotti A. Effect of poorly absorbable antibiotics on hepatic venous pressure gradient in cirrhosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Dig Liver Dis 2020; 52:958-965. [PMID: 32736898 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2020.06.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of poorly/non-absorbable antibiotics on hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) are debated. AIM To analyze the effects of rifaximin or norfloxacin on HVPG and on markers of bacterial translocation and proinflammatory cytokines. METHODS We performed a systematic search of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) involving patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension, assessing the effect of rifaximin or norfloxacin vs control on HVPG. Pooled analyses were based on random-effects models, heterogeneity was assessed by Cochran's Q, I2 statistic and subgroup analyses. RESULTS Five studies (215 patients) were included. Risk of bias was high in three. We found no significant differences using antibiotics versus control. The summary mean difference in HVPG was of -0.55 mmHg (95%CI:-1.52, 0.42; P = 0.27), with moderate heterogeneity (P = 0.15; I2 = 40%). RCTs with longer therapy (60-90 days) used non-selective-beta-blockers (NSBB) in both antibiotics and control arms. Subgroup analysis showed a significantly greater reduction in HVPG in the combination arm over controls (mean difference -1.46 mmHg [95%CI: -2.63, -0.28; P = 0.01]) with no heterogeneity (P = 0.46; I2 = 0%). Serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) significantly decreased with antibiotics, but with high heterogeneity (P < 0.001; I2 = 92%). CONCLUSIONS Rifaximin or norfloxacin did not significantly reduce HVPG in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Studies using antibiotic for longer periods on top of NSBB showed a significant decrease in HVPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuly P Mendoza
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Susana G Rodrigues
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jaime Bosch
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Annalisa Berzigotti
- UVCM, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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8
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Bartoletti M, Rinaldi M, Pasquini Z, Scudeller L, Piano S, Giacobbe DR, Maraolo AE, Bussini L, Del Puente F, Incicco S, Angeli P, Giannella M, Baldassarre M, Caraceni P, Campoli C, Morelli MC, Cricca M, Ambretti S, Gentile I, Bassetti M, Viale P. Risk factors for candidaemia in hospitalized patients with liver cirrhosis: a multicentre case-control-control study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2020; 27:276-282. [PMID: 32360775 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2020.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors for candidaemia in patients with liver cirrhosis. METHODS This was a case-control-control (1:2:2) study performed in four Italian tertiary centres from 2006 to 2015. Cases were patients with liver cirrhosis developing candidaemia. For every case of candidaemia we enrolled two additional patients undergoing blood cultures for suspected infection yielding isolation of a bacterial pathogen (control A) and two additional patients undergoing blood cultures for suspected infection yielding negative results (control B). Patients were matched according to age, sex and model for end stage liver disease at hospital admission. RESULTS During the study period 90 cases, 180 controls A and 180 controls B were included. At multivariate analysis assessed by means of multinomial conditional regression models, factors independently associated with candidaemia were previous (<30 days) acute-on-chronic liver failure (relative risk ratio (RRR) 2.22 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.09-4.54), p = 0.046), previous(<30 days) gastrointestinal endoscopy (RRR 2.38 (95% CI 1.19-4.78) p = 0.014), previous(<30 days) antibiotic treatment for at least 7 days (RRR 2.74 (95% CI 1.00-7.48), p = 0.049), presence of central venous catheter (RRR 2.77 (95% CI 1.26-6.09, p = 0.011), total parenteral nutrition (RRR 3.90 (95% CI 1.62-9.40), p = 0.002) at infection onset and length of in-hospital stay >15 days (RRR 4.63 (95% CI 2.11-10.18), p <0.001] Conversely, rifaximin treatment was associated with lower rate of candidaemia (RRR 0.38 (95% CI 0.19-0.77), p = 0.007). Multivariable analysis for 30-day mortality showed that patients with isolation of Candida spp. from blood cultures had worse outcome when compared with controls even though the difference did not reach a statistical significance (hazard ratio 1.64 (95% 0.97-2.75) p = 0.06). CONCLUSIONS We identified previous antibiotic use, gastrointestinal endoscopy or acute-on-chronic liver failure and presence of central venous catheter especially for parenteral nutrition as independent factors associated with candidaemia. Surprisingly, chronic rifaximin use was a protective factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bartoletti
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - M Rinaldi
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Z Pasquini
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Clinica Malattie Infettive, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Sanità Pubblica, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Ospedali Riuniti Umberto I-Lancisi-Salesi, Ancona, Italy
| | - L Scudeller
- Scientific Direction IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - S Piano
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology Department of Medicine-DIMED University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - D R Giacobbe
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Clinica Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - A E Maraolo
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - L Bussini
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - F Del Puente
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Clinica Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - S Incicco
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology Department of Medicine-DIMED University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - P Angeli
- Unit of Internal Medicine and Hepatology Department of Medicine-DIMED University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - M Giannella
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Baldassarre
- Sant'Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - P Caraceni
- Sant'Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Campoli
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M C Morelli
- End-stage liver disease Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Cricca
- Operative Unit of Microbiology Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - S Ambretti
- Operative Unit of Microbiology Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - I Gentile
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - M Bassetti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy; Clinica Malattie Infettive, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino - IRCCS, Genoa, Italy
| | - P Viale
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Sant'Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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9
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Propranolol Suppresses the T-Helper Cell Depletion-Related Immune Dysfunction in Cirrhotic Mice. Cells 2020; 9:cells9030604. [PMID: 32138352 PMCID: PMC7140430 DOI: 10.3390/cells9030604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial translocation (BT) and splenomegaly contribute to cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction (CAID) including T cell depletion, infection, and chronic inflammation. β-blockers have been reported to decrease BT and improve splenomegaly. This study explores the modulation of β1 and β2 adrenergic receptors (ADRB1/ADRB2) by propranolol treatment on the peripheral and splenic immune dysfunction of cirrhotic mice. In vivo experiments were performed in bile duct ligation (BDL)- and thioacetamide (TAA)-cirrhotic mice receiving two weeks of propranolol treatment. Acute effects of propranolol were evaluated in T-helper (Th) cells isolated from spleen of cirrhotic mice. Over-expression of β1 and β2 adrenergic receptors (ADRB1/ADRB2) in spleen and T lymphocytes was associated with high peripheral/splenic lipopolysaccharide binding protein levels. Moreover, a decrease in Th cells percentage, increase in Treg subset, and cytokines were accompanied by increased apoptosis, proliferation, and reduced white pulp hyperplasia in cirrhotic mice, which were counteracted by propranolol treatment. The Th-cell depletion, systemic inflammation, BT, and infection were improved by chronic propranolol treatment. Acute propranolol treatment inhibited apoptosis, Treg-conditioned differentiation, and promoted Th2-conditioned differentiation through ADRB-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signals in cirrhotic mice. In conclusion, suppression of ADRB1 and ADRB2 expressions in spleen and splenic T lymphocytes by acute and chronic propranolol treatment ameliorate systemic and splenic immune dysfunction in cirrhosis.
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10
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Treatment with carvedilol improves survival of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure: a randomized controlled trial. Hepatol Int 2019; 13:800-813. [PMID: 31541422 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-019-09986-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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11
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Tergast TL, Kimmann M, Laser H, Gerbel S, Manns MP, Cornberg M, Maasoumy B. Systemic arterial blood pressure determines the therapeutic window of non-selective beta blockers in decompensated cirrhosis. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2019; 50:696-706. [PMID: 31373713 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The safety of non-selective β-blockers in patients with advanced cirrhosis has been questioned in recent years. It was hypothesised that there is a particular therapeutic window. However, the specific limits still need to be determined. AIM To evaluate potential limits of the therapeutic window of non-selective β-blocker therapy in patients with cirrhosis and ascites METHODS: The impact of non-selective β-blockers on 28-day transplant-free survival was analysed in a cohort of 624 consecutive patients with decompensated cirrhosis and ascites. Three potential limits were investigated: spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, acute-on-chronic liver failure, mean arterial blood pressure ≤ 82 and < 65 mm Hg. RESULTS Treatment with non-selective β-blockers was associated with a higher 28-day transplant-free survival in the overall cohort (hazard ratio: 0.621; P = .035) as well as in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (hazard ratio: 0.578; P = .031) and those with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (hazard ratio: 0.594; P = .073). In contrast, survival benefits were markedly attenuated in patients with a mean arterial blood pressure ≤ 82 mm Hg and completely lost in those with mean arterial blood pressure < 65 mm Hg (P = .536). In spontaneous bacterial peritonitis patients with a mean arterial blood pressure < 65 mm Hg non-selective β-blocker treatment was associated with renal impairment. Of note, among those with a mean arterial blood pressure ≥ 65 mm Hg non-selective β-blocker intake was consistently associated with superior transplant-free survival (hazard ratio: 0.582; P = .029) irrespective of the presence of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (hazard ratio: 0.435; P = .028) or acute-on-chronic liver failure (hazard ratio: 0.480 P = .034). CONCLUSIONS Ascites, acute-on-chronic liver failure and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis do not limit the safe use of non-selective β-blockers in patients with cirrhosis. Mean arterial blood pressure might represent a better indicator to determine the therapeutic window of non-selective β-blocker treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tammo L Tergast
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Kimmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Hans Laser
- Hannover Medical School, Centre for Information Management (ZIMt), Hannover, Germany
| | - Svetlana Gerbel
- Hannover Medical School, Centre for Information Management (ZIMt), Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung DZIF), Partner-site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany.,Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CIIM), Hannover, Germany
| | - Markus Cornberg
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung DZIF), Partner-site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany.,Centre for Individualised Infection Medicine (CIIM), Hannover, Germany
| | - Benjamin Maasoumy
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.,German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung DZIF), Partner-site Hannover-Braunschweig, Hannover, Germany
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12
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Gimenez P, Garcia‐Martinez I, Francés R, Gonzalez‐Navajas JM, Mauri M, Alfayate R, Almenara S, Miralles C, Palazon JM, Carnicer F, Pascual S, Such J, Horga JF, Zapater P. Treatment with non-selective beta-blockers affects the systemic inflammatory response to bacterial DNA in patients with cirrhosis. Liver Int 2018; 38:2219-2227. [PMID: 29802788 PMCID: PMC6282820 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The use of non-selective beta-blockers has been associated with lower rates of infection and reduced infection-associated morbidity in patients with cirrhosis. However, it is unknown if these drugs modify the systemic inflammatory response to circulating bacterial DNA. METHODS Sixty-three patients with cirrhosis were included during an episode of decompensation by ascites. Thirty of those patients were on beta-blockers. Blood samples were obtained after each patient had been in the supine position for at least 30 minutes in a quiet atmosphere. Bacterial DNA, serum cytokines, nitric oxide, and LPS were determined. Phagocytic and oxidative burst activities were determined in polymorphonuclear cells from the patients. RESULTS The detection rate of bacterial DNA in the blood was the same (33%) for patients not treated and treated with non-selective beta-blockers. Patients naive to non-selective beta-blockers showed significantly higher serum levels of IL6, IFN-gamma and IL10 in response to the presence of bacterial DNA. Patients treated with non-selective beta-blockers showed higher basal inflammatory activity that did not change with the presence of bacterial DNA. Monocytes and granulocytes from patients treated with non-selective beta-blockers showed a significantly increased phagocytic capacity in the presence of bacterial DNA. CONCLUSIONS In patients with cirrhosis, chronic treatment with beta-blockers is associated with a higher unstimulated production of serum cytokines and an increased phagocytic activity in the presence of bacterial DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rubén Francés
- CIBERehdInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain,Departamento Medicina ClínicaUniversidad Miguel HernándezElche, AlicanteSpain
| | | | - Montserrat Mauri
- Servicio de Análisis ClínicosHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - Rocío Alfayate
- Servicio de Análisis ClínicosHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - Susana Almenara
- Unidad de Farmacología ClínicaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - Cayetano Miralles
- Unidad HepáticaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - Jose M. Palazon
- CIBERehdInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain,Departamento Medicina ClínicaUniversidad Miguel HernándezElche, AlicanteSpain,Unidad HepáticaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - Fernando Carnicer
- Unidad HepáticaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - Sonia Pascual
- CIBERehdInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain,Unidad HepáticaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain
| | - José Such
- Digestive Disease InstituteCleveland Clinic Abu DhabiAbu DhabiUAE,Lerner School of MedicineCase Western Reserve UniversityClevelandOHUSA
| | - José F. Horga
- Unidad de Farmacología ClínicaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain,Instituto de BioingenieriaUniversidad Miguel HernándezElche, AlicanteSpain
| | - Pedro Zapater
- CIBERehdInstituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain,Unidad de Farmacología ClínicaHospital General Universitario de AlicanteInstituto de Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de Alicante (ISABIAL‐Fundación FISABIO)AlicanteSpain,Instituto de BioingenieriaUniversidad Miguel HernándezElche, AlicanteSpain
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13
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Bernardi M, Caraceni P. Novel perspectives in the management of decompensated cirrhosis. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:753-764. [PMID: 30026556 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0045-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The current approaches to the management of patients with decompensated cirrhosis are based on targeted strategies aimed at preventing or treating specific complications of the disease. The improved knowledge of the pathophysiological background of advanced cirrhosis, represented by a sustained systemic inflammation strictly linked to a circulatory dysfunction, provides a novel paradigm for the management of these patients, with the ambitious target of modifying the course of the disease by preventing the onset of complications and multiorgan failure; these interventions will eventually improve patients' quality of life, prolong survival and reduce health-care costs. Besides aetiological treatments, these goals could be achieved by persistently antagonizing key pathophysiological events, such as portal hypertension, abnormal bacterial translocation from the gut, liver damage, systemic inflammation, circulatory dysfunction and altered immunological responses. Interestingly, in addition to strategies based on new therapeutic agents, these targets can be tackled by employing drugs that are already used in patients with cirrhosis for different indications or in other clinical settings, including non-absorbable oral antibiotics, non-selective β-blockers, human albumin and statins. The scope of the present Review includes reporting updated information on the treatments that promise to influence the course of advanced cirrhosis and thus act as disease-modifying agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Paolo Caraceni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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14
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Fernández J, Acevedo J, Wiest R, Gustot T, Amoros A, Deulofeu C, Reverter E, Martínez J, Saliba F, Jalan R, Welzel T, Pavesi M, Hernández-Tejero M, Ginès P, Arroyo V. Bacterial and fungal infections in acute-on-chronic liver failure: prevalence, characteristics and impact on prognosis. Gut 2018; 67:1870-1880. [PMID: 28847867 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2017-314240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Bacterial infection is a frequent trigger of acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), syndrome that could also increase the risk of infection. This investigation evaluated prevalence and characteristics of bacterial and fungal infections causing and complicating ACLF, predictors of follow-up bacterial infections and impact of bacterial infections on survival. PATIENTS 407 patients with ACLF and 235 patients with acute decompensation (AD). RESULTS 152 patients (37%) presented bacterial infections at ACLF diagnosis; 46%(n=117) of the remaining 255 patients with ACLF developed bacterial infections during follow-up (4 weeks). The corresponding figures in patients with AD were 25% and 18% (p<0.001). Severe infections (spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, pneumonia, severe sepsis/shock, nosocomial infections and infections caused by multiresistant organisms) were more prevalent in patients with ACLF. Patients with ACLF and bacterial infections (either at diagnosis or during follow-up) showed higher grade of systemic inflammation at diagnosis of the syndrome, worse clinical course (ACLF 2-3 at final assessment: 47% vs 26%; p<0.001) and lower 90-day probability of survival (49% vs 72.5%;p<0.001) than patients with ACLF without infection. Bacterial infections were independently associated with mortality in patients with ACLF-1 and ACLF-2. Fungal infections developed in 9 patients with ACLF (2%) and in none with AD, occurred mainly after ACLF diagnosis (78%) and had high 90-day mortality (71%). CONCLUSION Bacterial infections are extremely frequent in ACLF. They are severe and associated with intense systemic inflammation, poor clinical course and high mortality. Patients with ACLF are highly predisposed to develop bacterial infections within a short follow-up period and could benefit from prophylactic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Fernández
- Liver ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,EASL CLIF Consortium, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure; EF CLIF, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thierry Gustot
- Liver Transplant Unit, Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alex Amoros
- EASL CLIF Consortium, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure; EF CLIF, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carme Deulofeu
- EASL CLIF Consortium, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure; EF CLIF, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Reverter
- Liver ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Martínez
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hospital Ramon y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Faouzi Saliba
- Centre Hépato-Biliaire,Hôpital Paul Brousse, Paris, France
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- ILDH, Division of Medicine, University College London Medical School, London, UK
| | - Tania Welzel
- Department of Medicine, JW Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Marco Pavesi
- EASL CLIF Consortium, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure; EF CLIF, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Pere Ginès
- Liver ICU, Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,EASL CLIF Consortium, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure; EF CLIF, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Arroyo
- EASL CLIF Consortium, European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure; EF CLIF, Barcelona, Spain
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15
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EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines for the management of patients with decompensated cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2018; 69:406-460. [PMID: 29653741 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1486] [Impact Index Per Article: 247.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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16
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Ponziani FR, Zocco MA, Cerrito L, Gasbarrini A, Pompili M. Bacterial translocation in patients with liver cirrhosis: physiology, clinical consequences, and practical implications. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 12:641-656. [PMID: 29806487 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2018.1481747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The gut liver axis is an operative unit that works to protect the human body against potentially harmful substances and microorganisms, maintaining the homeostasis of the immune system. Liver cirrhosis profoundly alters this complex system. The intestine becomes more permeable allowing the translocation of bacteria, bacterial products and fragments into the portal circulation, triggering an abnormal local and systemic inflammatory response and a condition of perpetual immunologic alarm. This immune-inflammatory disorder related to dysbiosis is involved in the development of liver damage and liver cirrhosis complications and increases intestinal permeability in a vicious circle. Areas covered: The most relevant studies on bacterial translocation, the mechanism of intestinal barrier dysfunction and its consequences in patients with liver cirrhosis have been revised through a PubMed search. Data have been discussed with particular regard to their significance in clinical practice. Expert commentary: The assessment of bacterial translocation and intestinal permeability is not currently used in clinical practice but may be useful to stratify patients' prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Romana Ponziani
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- a Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology , Fondazione Agostino Gemelli Hospital , Rome , Italy
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17
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Taprantzi D, Zisimopoulos D, Thomopoulos KC, Spiliopoulou I, Georgiou CD, Tsiaoussis G, Triantos C, Gogos CA, Labropoulou-Karatza C, Assimakopoulos SF. Propranolol reduces systemic oxidative stress and endotoxemia in cirrhotic patients with esophageal varices. Ann Gastroenterol 2018; 31:224-230. [PMID: 29507470 PMCID: PMC5825953 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2017.0222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of propranolol on systemic oxidative stress and endotoxemia in patients with liver cirrhosis and clinically significant portal hypertension evidenced by the presence of esophageal varices. METHODS Fourteen patients with liver cirrhosis and esophageal varices, not previously been treated with non-selective beta-blockers (NSBB), were prospectively started on propranolol and followed up for three months. Serum early and late lipid peroxidation products (lipid hydroperoxides [LOOH] and malondialdehyde [MDA], respectively), and endotoxin concentrations in peripheral blood were measured. Fourteen age- and sex-matched healthy individuals were used as controls. RESULTS Patients with liver cirrhosis presented significantly higher systemic oxidative stress and endotoxin concentrations compared to healthy controls (P<0.001). Propranolol treatment for one month significantly reduced serum MDA (P<0.05), LOOH (P<0.01), and endotoxin levels (P<0.01) compared to pre-treatment values, whilst LOOH reached control levels. At three months of propranolol treatment, serum LOOH did not differ significantly from the one-month values, whilst serum endotoxin and MDA levels were further reduced between 3- and 1-month period (P<0.05 and P<0.01, respectively), with the latter reaching control levels. Amelioration of systemic endotoxemia at the one- and three-month follow-up intervals (compared to pre-treatment values) was not correlated with the respective reductions in serum MDA and LOOH. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to show that NSBB treatment in liver cirrhosis exerts a significant systemic antioxidant action. This effect seems to be, at least partly, independent of their beneficial effects on intestinal barrier function and endotoxemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitra Taprantzi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Dimitra Taprantzi, Charalambos A. Gogos, Chrisoula Labropoulou-Karatza, Stelios F. Assimakopoulos), Greece
| | - Dimitrios Zisimopoulos
- Department of Biology, University of Patras (Dimitrios Zisimopoulos, Christos D. Georgiou), Greece
| | - Konstantinos C. Thomopoulos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Konstantinos C. Thomopoulos, Georgios Tsiaoussis, Christos Triantos), Greece
| | - Iris Spiliopoulou
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Patras (Iris Spiliopoulou), Greece
| | - Christos D. Georgiou
- Department of Biology, University of Patras (Dimitrios Zisimopoulos, Christos D. Georgiou), Greece
| | - Georgios Tsiaoussis
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Konstantinos C. Thomopoulos, Georgios Tsiaoussis, Christos Triantos), Greece
| | - Christos Triantos
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Konstantinos C. Thomopoulos, Georgios Tsiaoussis, Christos Triantos), Greece
| | - Charalambos A. Gogos
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Dimitra Taprantzi, Charalambos A. Gogos, Chrisoula Labropoulou-Karatza, Stelios F. Assimakopoulos), Greece
| | - Chrisoula Labropoulou-Karatza
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Dimitra Taprantzi, Charalambos A. Gogos, Chrisoula Labropoulou-Karatza, Stelios F. Assimakopoulos), Greece
| | - Stelios F. Assimakopoulos
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital of Patras (Dimitra Taprantzi, Charalambos A. Gogos, Chrisoula Labropoulou-Karatza, Stelios F. Assimakopoulos), Greece
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18
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Huan HB, Wen XD, Chen XJ, Wu L, Wu LL, Zhang L, Yang DP, Zhang X, Bie P, Qian C, Xia F. Sympathetic nervous system promotes hepatocarcinogenesis by modulating inflammation through activation of alpha1-adrenergic receptors of Kupffer cells. Brain Behav Immun 2017; 59:118-134. [PMID: 27585737 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2016.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is known to play a significant role in tumor initiation and metastasis. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) frequently occurs in cirrhotic livers after chronic inflammation, and the SNS is hyperactive in advanced liver cirrhosis. However, it remains unclear whether the SNS promotes hepatocarcinogenesis by modulating chronic liver inflammation. In this study, a retrospective pathological analysis and quantification of sympathetic nerve fiber densities (tyrosine hydroxylase, TH+) in HCC patients, and diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats were performed. Our data showed that high density of sympathetic nerve fibers and α1-adrenergic receptors (ARs) of Kupffer cells (KCs) were associated with a poor prognosis of HCC. Sympathetic denervation or blocking of α1-ARs decreased DEN-induced HCC incidence and tumor development. In addition, synergistic effects of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in hepatocarcinogenesis were observed. The suppression of the SNS reduced IL-6 and TGF-β expression, which suppressed hepatocarcinogenesis, and KCs play a key role in this process. After the ablation of KCs, IL-6 and TGF-β expression and the development of HCC were inhibited. This study demonstrates that sympathetic innervation is crucial for hepatocarcinogenesis and that the SNS promotes hepatocarcinogenesis by activating α1-ARs of KCs to boost the activation of KCs and to maintain the inflammatory microenvironment. These results indicate that sympathetic denervation or α1-ARs blockage may represent novel treatment approaches for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Bo Huan
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xu-Dong Wen
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xue-Jiao Chen
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of Ministry of Education China, Chongqing, China
| | - Lin Wu
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Li-Li Wu
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Da-Peng Yang
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Zhang
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of Ministry of Education China, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Bie
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Qian
- Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, and Key Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Pathology of Ministry of Education China, Chongqing, China
| | - Feng Xia
- Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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19
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Blasco-Algora S, Masegosa-Ataz J, Alonso S, Gutiérrez ML, Fernández-Rodriguez C. Non-selective β-blockers in advanced cirrhosis: a critical review of the effects on overall survival and renal function. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2016; 3:e000104. [PMID: 28074149 PMCID: PMC5174812 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2016-000104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2016] [Revised: 07/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Non-selective β-blockers (NSBBs) are widely prescribed in patients with cirrhosis for primary and secondary prophylaxis of bleeding oesophageal varices. Furthermore, it has been suggested that the clinical benefits of NSBBs may extend beyond their haemodynamic effects. Recently, a potentially harmful effect has been described in patients with refractory ascites or spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Methodology A comprehensive literature search on β-blockers and cirrhosis survival using the electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, AMED, CINAHL and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Full-text manuscripts published over more than 35 years, from 1980 to April 2016 were reviewed for relevance and reference lists were cross-checked for additional pertinent studies regarding potential NSBB effects, especially focused on those concerned with survival and/or acute kidney injury (AKI). Discussion The proposed review will be able to provide valuable evidence to help decision making in the use of NSBB for the treatment of advanced cirrhosis and highlights some limitations in existing evidence to direct future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Blasco-Algora
- Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain; University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Masegosa-Ataz
- Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain; University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Alonso
- Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain; University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria-Luisa Gutiérrez
- Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain; University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Conrado Fernández-Rodriguez
- Gastroenterology Unit, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcon, Madrid, Spain; University Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
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20
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Fernández J, Tandon P, Mensa J, Garcia-Tsao G. Antibiotic prophylaxis in cirrhosis: Good and bad. Hepatology 2016; 63:2019-31. [PMID: 26528864 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Patients with cirrhosis, particularly those with decompensated cirrhosis, are at increased risk of bacterial infections that may further precipitate other liver decompensations including acute-on-chronic liver failure. Infections constitute the main cause of death in patients with advanced cirrhosis, and strategies to prevent them are essential. The main current strategy is the use of prophylactic antibiotics targeted at specific subpopulations at high risk of infection: prior episode of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, upper gastrointestinal bleeding, and low-protein ascites with associated poor liver function. Antibiotic prophylaxis effectively prevents not only the development of bacterial infections in all these indications but also further decompensation (variceal bleeding, hepatorenal syndrome) and improves survival. However, antibiotic prophylaxis is also associated with a clinically relevant and increasing drawback, the development of infections due to multidrug-resistant organisms. Several strategies have been suggested to balance the risks and benefits of antibiotic prophylaxis. CONCLUSION Antibiotic stewardship principles such as the restriction of antibiotic prophylaxis to subpopulations at a very high risk for infection, the avoidance of antibiotic overuse, and early deescalation policies are key to achieve this balance; nonantibiotic prophylactic measures such as probiotics, prokinetics, bile acids, statins, and hematopoietic growth factors could also contribute to ameliorate the development and spread of multidrug-resistant bacteria in cirrhosis. (Hepatology 2016;63:2019-2031).
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Fernández
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August-Pi-Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Puneeta Tandon
- Cirrhosis Care Clinic, Cirrhosis Care, Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Jose Mensa
- Infectious Disease Department, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Garcia-Tsao
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT.,Section of Digestive Diseases, VA-CT Healthcare System, West Haven, CT
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21
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Wang D, Wang Q, Yin J, Dong R, Wang Q, Du X, Lu J. Combined administration of propranolol + AG490 offers better effects on portal hypertensive rats with cirrhosis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 31:1037-44. [PMID: 26487394 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2015] [Revised: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS AG490, the specific inhibitor of JAK2/STAT3 signaling, has been shown to decrease portal pressure, splanchnic hyperdynamic circulation and liver fibrosis in cirrhotic rats. Nonselective betablockers such as propranolol are the only drugs recommended in the treatment of portal hypertension. The aim of this study was to explore the combinative effect of treatment with propranolol and AG490 on portal hypertension. METHODS Rats induced by common bile duct ligation were treated with vehicle, AG490, propranolol, or AG490 + propranolol for 2 weeks. Hemodynamics parameters were assessed. Expressions of phospho-STAT3 protein and its down-regulated cytokines in splanchnic organs were detected by ELISA or western blot. Lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) and IL-6 were assessed by ELISA or western blot. Characterization of liver and mesentery was performed by histological analyses. RESULTS Highly expressed phospho-STAT3 protein in cirrhotic rats could successfully be inhibited by AG490 or AG490 + propranolol treatments but not by propranolol alone. Both AG490 and propranolol significantly reduced portal pressure and hyperdynamic splanchnic circulation, and combination of AG490 and propranolol achieved an additive effect than with either drug alone. AG490, alone or in combination with propranolol, inhibited liver fibrosis, splenomegaly and splanchnic angiogenesis. Increased markers of bacterial translocation (LBP and IL6) were greatly reduced by propranolol but not by AG490. CONCLUSIONS The combination of propranolol and AG490 caused a greater improvement of portal hypertension and might therefore offer a potentially promising therapy in the portal hypertension treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Wang
- Departments of General Surgery, TangDu Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Qin Wang
- Pharmacogenomics, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jikai Yin
- Departments of General Surgery, TangDu Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Rui Dong
- Departments of General Surgery, TangDu Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Qing Wang
- Departments of General Surgery, TangDu Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Xilin Du
- Departments of General Surgery, TangDu Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jianguo Lu
- Departments of General Surgery, TangDu Hospital, Xi'an, China
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22
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Abstract
Background Understanding of the gut-liver axis is important for the up-to-date management of liver cirrhosis, and changes of intestinal functions form the core of this interesting research field. Summary Most investigators noted small intestinal dysmotility in their patients with liver cirrhosis. Marked changes in the contraction pattern were observed in early manometric studies. The orocecal transit time, particularly small intestinal transit, has generally been reported to be prolonged, which has been demonstrated in multiple investigations to be related to the severity of the liver disease (e.g., Child-Pugh class), the presence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) as well as a history of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Bacteriologically proven SIBO in proximal jejunal aspiration has been reported to be present in up to 59% of cirrhotic patients and is associated with systemic endotoxemia. Clinical and experimental studies suggest that delayed small bowel transit in liver cirrhosis may lead to SIBO, which could contribute to the symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea. In addition to autonomic neuropathy, metabolic derangements and diabetic state, SIBO itself may delay intestinal transit in cirrhotic patients. Several studies, both from the West and the East, have shown that the gut microbiota is altered in cirrhotic patients and particularly those with HE. Further, a quantitative change in Bacteroides/Firmicutes ratio, with a prevalence of potentially pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Enterobacteriaceae) and reduction in specific commensals (e.g., Lachnospiraceae), has been described. Structural and functional changes in the intestinal mucosa that contribute to increases in intestinal permeability for bacteria and their products have been observed in patients with liver cirrhosis, which is considered as an important pathogenetic factor for several complications. The mechanism of intestinal barrier dysfunction in cirrhosis is multifactorial, including alcohol, portal hypertension (vascular congestion and dysregulation), endotoxemia, SIBO, local inflammation and, most likely, immunological factors and medications. Key Messages This review summarizes major achievements regarding intestinal dysfunction in cirrhosis for future gastroenterology research. The question of whether this intestinal barrier dysfunction is accompanied and/or at least partly caused by structural and functional changes in the epithelial tight junction proteins is as yet unsolved. Development of new strategies to modulate gut-liver interaction is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fukui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
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23
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Fukui H, Wiest R. Changes of Intestinal Functions in Liver Cirrhosis. Inflamm Intest Dis 2016; 1:24-40. [PMID: 29922655 PMCID: PMC5988129 DOI: 10.1159/000444436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding of the gut-liver axis is important for the up-to-date management of liver cirrhosis, and changes of intestinal functions form the core of this interesting research field. SUMMARY Most investigators noted small intestinal dysmotility in their patients with liver cirrhosis. Marked changes in the contraction pattern were observed in early manometric studies. The orocecal transit time, particularly small intestinal transit, has generally been reported to be prolonged, which has been demonstrated in multiple investigations to be related to the severity of the liver disease (e.g., Child-Pugh class), the presence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) as well as a history of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Bacteriologically proven SIBO in proximal jejunal aspiration has been reported to be present in up to 59% of cirrhotic patients and is associated with systemic endotoxemia. Clinical and experimental studies suggest that delayed small bowel transit in liver cirrhosis may lead to SIBO, which could contribute to the symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea. In addition to autonomic neuropathy, metabolic derangements and diabetic state, SIBO itself may delay intestinal transit in cirrhotic patients. Several studies, both from the West and the East, have shown that the gut microbiota is altered in cirrhotic patients and particularly those with HE. Further, a quantitative change in Bacteroides/Firmicutes ratio, with a prevalence of potentially pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Enterobacteriaceae) and reduction in specific commensals (e.g., Lachnospiraceae), has been described. Structural and functional changes in the intestinal mucosa that contribute to increases in intestinal permeability for bacteria and their products have been observed in patients with liver cirrhosis, which is considered as an important pathogenetic factor for several complications. The mechanism of intestinal barrier dysfunction in cirrhosis is multifactorial, including alcohol, portal hypertension (vascular congestion and dysregulation), endotoxemia, SIBO, local inflammation and, most likely, immunological factors and medications. KEY MESSAGES This review summarizes major achievements regarding intestinal dysfunction in cirrhosis for future gastroenterology research. The question of whether this intestinal barrier dysfunction is accompanied and/or at least partly caused by structural and functional changes in the epithelial tight junction proteins is as yet unsolved. Development of new strategies to modulate gut-liver interaction is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fukui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
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24
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Abstract
Background Understanding of the gut-liver axis is important for the up-to-date management of liver cirrhosis, and changes of intestinal functions form the core of this interesting research field. Summary Most investigators noted small intestinal dysmotility in their patients with liver cirrhosis. Marked changes in the contraction pattern were observed in early manometric studies. The orocecal transit time, particularly small intestinal transit, has generally been reported to be prolonged, which has been demonstrated in multiple investigations to be related to the severity of the liver disease (e.g., Child-Pugh class), the presence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and hepatic encephalopathy (HE) as well as a history of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Bacteriologically proven SIBO in proximal jejunal aspiration has been reported to be present in up to 59% of cirrhotic patients and is associated with systemic endotoxemia. Clinical and experimental studies suggest that delayed small bowel transit in liver cirrhosis may lead to SIBO, which could contribute to the symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea. In addition to autonomic neuropathy, metabolic derangements and diabetic state, SIBO itself may delay intestinal transit in cirrhotic patients. Several studies, both from the West and the East, have shown that the gut microbiota is altered in cirrhotic patients and particularly those with HE. Further, a quantitative change in Bacteroides/Firmicutes ratio, with a prevalence of potentially pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Enterobacteriaceae) and reduction in specific commensals (e.g., Lachnospiraceae), has been described. Structural and functional changes in the intestinal mucosa that contribute to increases in intestinal permeability for bacteria and their products have been observed in patients with liver cirrhosis, which is considered as an important pathogenetic factor for several complications. The mechanism of intestinal barrier dysfunction in cirrhosis is multifactorial, including alcohol, portal hypertension (vascular congestion and dysregulation), endotoxemia, SIBO, local inflammation and, most likely, immunological factors and medications. Key Messages This review summarizes major achievements regarding intestinal dysfunction in cirrhosis for future gastroenterology research. The question of whether this intestinal barrier dysfunction is accompanied and/or at least partly caused by structural and functional changes in the epithelial tight junction proteins is as yet unsolved. Development of new strategies to modulate gut-liver interaction is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Fukui
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan
| | - Reiner Wiest
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Visceral Surgery and Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
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25
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Mookerjee RP, Pavesi M, Thomsen KL, Mehta G, Macnaughtan J, Bendtsen F, Coenraad M, Sperl J, Gines P, Moreau R, Arroyo V, Jalan R. Treatment with non-selective beta blockers is associated with reduced severity of systemic inflammation and improved survival of patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure. J Hepatol 2016; 64:574-82. [PMID: 26519600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Non-selective beta blockers (NSBBs) have been shown to have deleterious outcomes in patients with refractory ascites, alcoholic hepatitis and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis leading many physicians to stop the drug in these cases. Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by systemic inflammation and high mortality. As NSBBs may have beneficial effects on gut motility and permeability and, systemic inflammation, the aims of this prospective, observational study were to determine whether ongoing use of NSBBs reduced 28-day mortality in ACLF patients. METHODS The study was performed in 349 patients with ACLF included in the CANONIC study, which is a prospective observational investigation in hospitalized cirrhotic patients with acute deterioration. The data about the use of NSBBs, its type and dosage was specifically recorded. Patient characteristics at enrollment significantly associated with treatment and mortality were taken into account as potential confounders to adjust for treatment effect. A logistic regression model was fitted. RESULTS 164 (47%) ACLF patients received NSBBs whereas 185 patients did not. Although the CLIF-C ACLF scores were similar at presentation, more patients in the NSBB treated group had lower grades of ACLF (p=0.047) at presentation and significantly more patients improved. Forty patients (24.4%) died in NSBB treated group compared with 63 patients (34.1%) (p=0.048) [estimated risk-reduction 0.596 (95%CI: 0.361-0.985; p=0.0436)]. This improvement in survival was associated with a significantly lower white cell count (NSBB: 8.5 (5.8); no NSBB: 10.8 (6.6); p=0.002). No long-term improvement in survival was observed. CONCLUSIONS This study shows for the first time that ongoing treatment with NSBBs in cirrhosis is safe and reduces the mortality if they develop ACLF. Careful thought should be given before stopping NSBBs in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeshwar P Mookerjee
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Pavesi
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure (EF-CLIF) and EASL-CLIF Consortium
| | - Karen Louise Thomsen
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gautam Mehta
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Macnaughtan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Flemming Bendtsen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Minneke Coenraad
- Department of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Sperl
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pere Gines
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro d'Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEReHD), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Richard Moreau
- Inserm, U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation (CRI), Clichy and Paris, France; UMRS1149, Université Paris Diderot-Paris 7, Paris, France; Département Hospitalo-Universitaire (DHU) UNITY, Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital Beaujon, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Clichy, France; Laboratoire d'Excellence Inflamex, PRES Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Vicente Arroyo
- European Foundation for the Study of Chronic Liver Failure (EF-CLIF) and EASL-CLIF Consortium
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, UCL Medical School, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom.
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26
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Thomsen KL, Macnaughtan J, Tritto G, Mookerjee RP, Jalan R. Clinical and Pathophysiological Characteristics of Cirrhotic Patients with Grade 1 and Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0146076. [PMID: 26745876 PMCID: PMC4706303 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0146076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims EASL/AASLD hepatic encephalopathy (HE) guidelines proposed the alternative use of the term ‘Covert HE’ combining minimal HE (mHE) and Grade 1 HE into a single entity. However, longitudinal data to indicate that these are indeed a single entity are lacking. The aims of this study were to determine whether the occurrence of complications of cirrhosis requiring hospital admission and mortality were similar in these sub-groups of patients. Methods Clinically-stable cirrhotic patients (n = 106) with no previous history of ‘Overt HE’ were included over a 2-year period and classified as having no HE (n = 23), mHE (n = 39) or Grade 1 HE (n = 44). Standard biochemistry, venous ammonia, bacterial DNA and neutrophil function were measured at inclusion and the patients were followed for a mean of 230±95 days. Results Patients with Grade 1 HE had significantly more complications requiring hospitalisation (infection 9/18/34%; HE 4/8/18%; other 13/10/11%; P = 0.02) and significantly greater mortality (4/5/20%; P = 0.04) compared to patients with no HE or mHE respectively. Patients with mHE and grade 1 HE had similar ammonia levels, but higher than the no HE group (P<0.001). MELD score was similar between groups but Grade 1 HE patients had increased frequency of bacterial translocation (P = 0.06) and neutrophil spontaneous respiratory burst (P = 0.02) compared to patients with mHE. Conclusions The results of this study show for the first time that ‘Covert HE’ is a heterogeneous entity with significantly greater hospitalisations and mortality in the Grade 1 HE patients compared with mHE. Further prospective longer-term studies are required before EASL/AASLD guidance is fully implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Louise Thomsen
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Macnaughtan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giovanni Tritto
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rajeshwar P. Mookerjee
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rajiv Jalan
- Liver Failure Group, UCL Institute for Liver and Digestive Health, University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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27
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Bernardi M, Moreau R, Angeli P, Schnabl B, Arroyo V. Mechanisms of decompensation and organ failure in cirrhosis: From peripheral arterial vasodilation to systemic inflammation hypothesis. J Hepatol 2015; 63:1272-84. [PMID: 26192220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The peripheral arterial vasodilation hypothesis has been most influential in the field of cirrhosis and its complications. It has given rise to hundreds of pathophysiological studies in experimental and human cirrhosis and is the theoretical basis of life-saving treatments. It is undisputed that splanchnic arterial vasodilation contributes to portal hypertension and is the basis for manifestations such as ascites and hepatorenal syndrome, but the body of research generated by the hypothesis has revealed gaps in the original pathophysiological interpretation of these complications. The expansion of our knowledge on the mechanisms regulating vascular tone, inflammation and the host-microbiota interaction require a broader approach to advanced cirrhosis encompassing the whole spectrum of its manifestations. Indeed, multiorgan dysfunction and failure likely result from a complex interplay where the systemic spread of bacterial products represents the primary event. The consequent activation of the host innate immune response triggers endothelial molecular mechanisms responsible for arterial vasodilation, and also jeopardizes organ integrity with a storm of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Thus, the picture of advanced cirrhosis could be seen as the result of an inflammatory syndrome in contradiction with a simple hemodynamic disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Bernardi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences - Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Italy; Semeiotica Medica, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Richard Moreau
- Inserm, U(1149), Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation (CRI), Paris, France; UMR_S(1149), Université Paris Diderot, Faculté de Médecine, Paris, France; Département Hospitalo-Universitaire (DHU) UNITY, Service d'Hépatologie, Hôpital Beaujon, AP-HP, Clichy, France
| | - Paolo Angeli
- Unit of Hepatic Emergencies and Liver Transplantation, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Bernd Schnabl
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Department of Medicine, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Vicente Arroyo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomediques Agust Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Barcelona, Spain
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28
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Pecaut MJ, Mehrotra S, Luo-Owen X, Bayeta EJM, Bellinger DL, Gridley DS. Chlorisondamine, a sympathetic ganglionic blocker, moderates the effects of whole-body irradiation (WBI) on early host defense to a live bacterial challenge. Immunol Lett 2015; 167:103-15. [PMID: 26235133 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2015.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing consensus that long-term deficits in the brain are due to dynamic interactions between multiple neural and immune cell types. Specifically, radiation induces an inflammatory response, including changes in neuromodulatory pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion. The purpose of this study was to establish that there is sympathetic involvement in radiation-induced decrements early in in vivo immune function host defense. Female, 8-9 week-old C57BL/6J mice were exposed to whole-body irradiation (WBI). There were 8 groups with radiation (0 vs. 3 Gy protons), immune challenge (Escherichia coli) and exposure to the sympathetic ganglionic blocker, chlorisondamine (1 mg/kg weight, i.p.), as independent variables. Ten days post-irradiation, mice were inoculated with E. coli intraperitoneally and sacrificed 90-120 min later. The data suggest that radiation-induced changes in immune function may in part be mediated by the sympathetic nervous system. Briefly, we found that radiation augments the bacteria-induced inflammatory cytokine response, particularly those cytokines involved in innate immunity. However, this augmentation can be reduced by the ganglionic blockade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Pecaut
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States; Division of Radiation Research, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States; Division of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States.
| | - Shalini Mehrotra
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States
| | - Xian Luo-Owen
- Division of Trauma Services, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States
| | - Erben J M Bayeta
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States
| | - Denise L Bellinger
- Department of Pathology and Human Anatomy, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States
| | - Daila S Gridley
- Department of Basic Sciences, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States; Division of Radiation Research, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States; Division of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Loma Linda University and Medical Center, Loma Linda, 92354 CA, United States
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29
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Kandilis AN, Papadopoulou IP, Koskinas J, Sotiropoulos G, Tiniakos DG. Liver innervation and hepatic function: new insights. J Surg Res 2015; 194:511-519. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2014.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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30
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Merli M, Lucidi C, Di Gregorio V, Giannelli V, Giusto M, Ceccarelli G, Riggio O, Venditti M. The chronic use of beta-blockers and proton pump inhibitors may affect the rate of bacterial infections in cirrhosis. Liver Int 2015; 35:362-9. [PMID: 24836902 DOI: 10.1111/liv.12593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Bacterial infections are among the most common and life-threatening complications in cirrhosis. Qualitative and quantitative modifications of the gut microbiota, dysfunction of the intestinal barrier and multiple immune defects are factors that contribute to a pathological 'bacterial translocation' (BT), leading to a higher susceptibility to infections in cirrhotic patients. Long-term therapies, commonly adopted in cirrhotic patients, may influence BT and modify the risk of infection in these patients. To investigate the influence of chronic therapies on the prevalence and microbiological characteristics of infections in cirrhosis. METHODS Consecutive cirrhotic patients hospitalised from 2008 to 2013 were enrolled. All previous treatments were carefully recorded. Infections were actively sought out, patients were actively monitored for infection, and possible risk factors were evaluated. RESULTS Four hundred cirrhotic patients were included. The most frequent therapies were proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (67%), non-absorbable-disaccharides (44%), beta-blockers (BBs) (39%) and non-absorbable-antibiotics (10%). Child-Pugh C (P < 0.001; OR 5; 95%CI: 2.6-9.9) and PPI therapy (P = 0.008; OR 2; 95% CI: 1.2-3.2) were found to be independent predictors of infection, and the use of BBs was a protective factor (P = 0.001; OR 0.46; 95%CI: 0.3-0.7). Cirrhotic patients with bacterial infection showed lower morbidity and mortality when taking BBs. CONCLUSIONS Proton pump inhibitors increase the risk of infection in cirrhosis and should not be prescribed in these patients without specific indications. In contrast, the use of BBs is associated with a lower rate of infection and attenuates the consequences of infections in cirrhotic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Merli
- Gastroenterology, Department of Clinical Medicine, 'Sapienza' University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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31
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Abstract
Cirrhosis can be sub-classified in clinical stages with distinct differences in prognosis and can even be reversed in some cases with successful etiological treatment. In this article, we review potential future therapies of cirrhosis, mainly focusing in the expansion of indications of currently licensed drugs. We strongly advocate that future therapies should focus on preventing the advent of complications and further progression of liver disease and should involve both primary and secondary care physicians. Such strategies could be based on the combination of currently licensed, relatively safe and inexpensive drugs and such randomized controlled trials should be prioritized in patients with advanced liver disease. The paradigm should be similar to that of prevention in cardiovascular diseases and long-term follow-up trials are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- The Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free Hospital and UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
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32
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Abstract
Cirrhosis is an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in more developed countries, being the 14th most common cause of death worldwide but fourth in central Europe. Increasingly, cirrhosis has been seen to be not a single disease entity, but one that can be subclassified into distinct clinical prognostic stages, with 1-year mortality ranging from 1% to 57% depending on the stage. We review the current understanding of cirrhosis as a dynamic process and outline current therapeutic options for prevention and treatment of complications of cirrhosis, on the basis of the subclassification in clinical stages. The new concept in management of patients with cirrhosis should be prevention and early intervention to stabilise disease progression and to avoid or delay clinical decompensation and the need for liver transplantation. The challenge in the 21st century is to prevent the need for liver transplantation in as many patients with cirrhosis as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel A Tsochatzis
- Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free Hospital and UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK
| | - Jaime Bosch
- Hepatic Hemodynamic Laboratory, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrew K Burroughs
- Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre, Royal Free Hospital and UCL Institute of Liver and Digestive Health, London, UK.
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33
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Wiest R, Lawson M, Geuking M. Pathological bacterial translocation in liver cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2014; 60:197-209. [PMID: 23993913 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2013.07.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 506] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Reiner Wiest
- Department Gastroenterology, Inselspital, University Hospital, Bern 3010, Switzerland.
| | - Melissa Lawson
- Maurice Müller Laboratories, Universitätsklinik für Viszerale Chirurgie und Medizin (UVCM), University of Bern, Bern 3010, Switzerland
| | - Markus Geuking
- Maurice Müller Laboratories, Universitätsklinik für Viszerale Chirurgie und Medizin (UVCM), University of Bern, Bern 3010, Switzerland
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Acevedo J, Fernández J, Prado V, Silva A, Castro M, Pavesi M, Roca D, Jimenez W, Ginès P, Arroyo V. Relative adrenal insufficiency in decompensated cirrhosis: Relationship to short-term risk of severe sepsis, hepatorenal syndrome, and death. Hepatology 2013; 58:1757-65. [PMID: 23728792 DOI: 10.1002/hep.26535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2013] [Revised: 05/09/2013] [Accepted: 05/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The prevalence of relative adrenal insufficiency (RAI) in critically ill cirrhosis patients with severe sepsis is over 60% and associated features include poor liver function, renal failure, refractory shock, and high mortality. RAI may also develop in noncritically ill cirrhosis patients but its relationship to the clinical course has not yet been assessed. The current study was performed in 143 noncritically ill cirrhosis patients admitted for acute decompensation. Within 24 hours after hospitalization adrenal function, plasma renin activity, plasma noradrenaline and vasopressin concentration, and serum levels of nitric oxide, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha were determined. RAI was defined as a serum total cortisol increase <9 μg/dL after 250 μg of intravenous corticotropin from basal values <35 μg/dL. Patients were followed for 3 months. RAI was detected in 26% of patients (n = 37). At baseline, patients with RAI presented with lower mean arterial pressure (76 ± 12 versus 83 ± 14 mmHg, P = 0.009) and serum sodium (131 ± 7 versus 135 ± 5 mEq/L, P = 0.007) and higher blood urea nitrogen (32 ± 24 versus 24 ± 15 mg/dl, P = 0.06), plasma renin activity (7.1 ± 9.9 versus 3.4 ± 5.6 ng/mL*h, P = 0.03), and noradrenaline concentration (544 ± 334 versus 402 ± 316 pg/mL, P = 0.02). During follow-up, patients with RAI exhibited a higher probability of infection (41% versus 21%, P = 0.008), severe sepsis (27% versus 9%, P = 0.003), type-1 hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) (16% versus 3%, P = 0.002), and death (22% versus 7%, P = 0.01). CONCLUSION RAI is frequent in noncritically ill patients with acute decompensation of cirrhosis. As compared with those with normal adrenal function, patients with RAI have greater impairment of circulatory and renal function, higher probability of severe sepsis and type-1 HRS, and higher short-term mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Acevedo
- Liver Unit, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August-Pi-Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHED), Barcelona, Spain
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Thiele M, Wiest R, Gluud LL, Albillos A, Krag A. Can non-selective beta-blockers prevent hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis? Med Hypotheses 2013; 81:871-4. [PMID: 24060485 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2013.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the main liver-related cause of death in patients with compensated cirrhosis. The early phases are asymptomatic and the prognosis is poor, which makes prevention essential. We propose that non-selective beta-blockers decrease the incidence and growth of hepatocellular carcinoma via a reduction of the inflammatory load from the gut to the liver and inhibition of angiogenesis. Due to their effect on the portal pressure, non-selective beta-blockers are used for prevention of esophageal variceal bleeding. Recently, non-hemodynamic effects of beta-blockers have received increasing attention. Blockage of β-adrenoceptors in the intestinal mucosa and gut lymphatic tissue together with changes in type and virulence of the intestinal microbiota lead to reduced bacterial translocation and a subsequent decrease in the portal load of pathogen-associated molecular patterns. This may reduce hepatic inflammation. Blockage of β-adrenoceptors also decrease angiogenesis by inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factors. Because gut-derived inflammation and neo-angiogenesis are important in hepatic carcinogenesis, non-selective beta-blockers can potentially reduce the development and growth of hepatocellular carcinoma. Rodent and in vitro studies support the hypothesis, but clinical verification is needed. Different study designs may be considered. The feasibility of a randomized controlled trial is limited due to the necessary large number of patients and long follow-up. Observational studies carry a high risk of bias. The meta-analytic approach may be used if the incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma can be extracted from trials on variceal bleeding and if the combined sample size and follow up is sufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Thiele
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
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Madsen BS, Havelund T, Krag A. Targeting the gut-liver axis in cirrhosis: antibiotics and non-selective β-blockers. Adv Ther 2013; 30:659-70. [PMID: 23881723 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-013-0044-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The gut-liver axis in cirrhosis and portal hypertension is gaining increasing attention as a key pathophysiological mechanism responsible for progression of liver failure and development of complications such as spontaneous infections and hepatocellular carcinoma. Antibiotics and non-selective β-blockers (NSBB) intercept this axis and each drug has proven efficacy in clinical trials. A synergistic effect is a hitherto unproven possibility. There is an increasing body of evidence supporting improved outcome with expanded use of NSBB and antibiotic therapy beyond current indications. This review addresses the issue of pharmacological treatment of cirrhosis and portal hypertension with antibiotics and NSBB. We discuss their mechanism of action and suggest that combining the two treatment modalities could potentially reduce the risk of complications.
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Reiberger T, Ferlitsch A, Payer BA, Mandorfer M, Heinisch BB, Hayden H, Lammert F, Trauner M, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Vogelsang H. Non-selective betablocker therapy decreases intestinal permeability and serum levels of LBP and IL-6 in patients with cirrhosis. J Hepatol 2013; 58:911-21. [PMID: 23262249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 225] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2012] [Revised: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We evaluated the gastrointestinal permeability and bacterial translocation in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension (PHT) prior to and after non-selective betablocker (NSBB) treatment. METHODS Hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) was measured prior to and under NSBB treatment. Gastroduodenal and intestinal permeability was assessed by the sucrose-lactulose-mannitol (SLM) test. Anti-gliadin and anti-endomysial antibodies were measured. Levels of LPS-binding protein (LBP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were quantified by ELISA, and NOD2 and toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) polymorphisms were genotyped. RESULTS Fifty cirrhotics were included (72% male, 18% ascites, 60% alcoholic etiology). Abnormal gastroduodenal and intestinal permeability was found in 72% and 59% of patients, respectively. Patients with severe portal hypertension (HVPG ≥20 mm Hg; n=35) had increased markers of gastroduodenal/intestinal permeability (urine sucrose levels p=0.049; sucrose/mannitol ratios p=0.007; intestinal permeability indices p=0.002), and bacterial translocation (LBP p=0.002; IL-6 p=0.025) than patients with HVPG <20 mm Hg. A substantial portion of patients showed elevated levels of anti-gliadin antibodies (IgA: 60%, IgG: 34%) whereas no anti-endomysial antibodies were detected. A significant correlation of portal pressure (i.e., HVPG) with all markers of gastroduodenal/intestinal permeability and with LBP and IL-6 levels was observed. NOD2 and TLR2 risk variants were associated with abnormal intestinal permeability and elevated markers of bacterial translocation. At follow-up HVPG measurements under NSBB, we found an amelioration of gastroduodenal/intestinal permeability and a decrease of bacterial translocation (LBP - 16% p=0.018; IL-6 - 41% p<0.0001) levels, which was not limited to hemodynamic responders. Abnormal SLM test results and higher LBP/IL-6 levels were associated with a higher risk of variceal bleeding during follow-up but not with mortality. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal gastroduodenal/intestinal permeability, anti-gliadin antibodies, and bacterial translocation are common findings in cirrhotic patients and are correlated with the degree of portal hypertension. NSBB treatment ameliorates gastroduodenal/intestinal permeability and reduces bacterial translocation partially independent of their hemodynamic effects on portal pressure, which may contribute to a reduced risk of variceal bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Reiberger
- Div. of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Dept. of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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Reboredo M, Chang HCY, Barbero R, Rodríguez-Ortigosa CM, Pérez-Vizcaíno F, Morán A, García M, Banales JM, Carreño N, Alegre F, Herrero I, Quiroga J, Prieto J, Sangro B. Zolmitriptan: a novel portal hypotensive agent which synergizes with propranolol in lowering portal pressure. PLoS One 2013; 8:e52683. [PMID: 23341903 PMCID: PMC3547109 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/19/2012] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Only a limited proportion of patients needing pharmacological control of portal hypertension are hemodynamic responders to propranolol. Here we analyzed the effects of zolmitriptan on portal pressure and its potential interaction with propranolol. METHODS ZOLMITRIPTAN, PROPRANOLOL OR BOTH WERE TESTED IN TWO RAT MODELS OF PORTAL HYPERTENSION: common bile duct ligation (CBDL) and CCl4-induced cirrhosis. In these animals we measured different hemodynamic parameters including portal venous pressure, arterial renal flow, portal blood flow and cardiac output. We also studied the changes in superior mesenteric artery perfusion pressure and in arterial wall cAMP levels induced by zolmitriptan, propranolol or both. Moreover, we determined the effect of splanchnic sympathectomy on the response of PVP to zolmitriptan. RESULTS In both models of portal hypertension zolmitriptan induced a dose-dependent transient descent of portal pressure accompanied by reduction of portal flow with only slight decrease in renal flow. In cirrhotic rats, splanchnic sympathectomy intensified and prolonged zolmitriptan-induced portal pressure descent. Also, propranolol caused more intense and durable portal pressure fall when combined with zolmitriptan. Mesenteric artery perfusion pressure peaked for about 1 min upon zolmitriptan administration but showed no change with propranolol. However propranolol enhanced and prolonged the elevation in mesenteric artery perfusion pressure induced by zolmitriptan. In vitro studies showed that propranolol prevented the inhibitory effects of β2-agonists on zolmitriptan-induced vasoconstriction and the combination of propranolol and zolmitriptan significantly reduced the elevation of cAMP caused by β2-agonists. CONCLUSION Zolmitriptan reduces portal hypertension and non-selective beta-blockers can improve this effect. Combination therapy deserves consideration for patients with portal hypertension failing to respond to non-selective beta-blockers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Reboredo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Pamplona, Spain.
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Muñoz L, José Borrero M, Ubeda M, Lario M, Díaz D, Francés R, Monserrat J, Pastor O, Aguado-Fraile E, Such J, Alvarez-Mon M, Albillos A. Interaction between intestinal dendritic cells and bacteria translocated from the gut in rats with cirrhosis. Hepatology 2012; 56:1861-9. [PMID: 22611024 DOI: 10.1002/hep.25854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Cirrhosis with ascites is associated with a high rate of gut bacterial translocation (GBT) and spontaneous bacterial infections of enteric origin. We addressed the activation state and role of intestinal dendritic cells (DCs) in experimental ascitic cirrhosis and their relationship with GBT. Cirrhosis with ascites was CCl(4) induced in rats. To examine their activation state and functions, DCs (CD103(+) RT1B(+) CD3(-) CD45RA(-) ) were isolated from the intestinal lamina propria and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs), and the following parameters were determined by flow cytometry: surface antigen expression; spontaneous or lipopolysaccharide-stimulated tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) production; and in vitro capacity to phagocytose latex beads and to migrate toward the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 21. GBT was defined as the growth of bacteria in MLNs culture. Bacterial DNA (Bact-DNA) in MLNs was identified by polymerase chain reaction. In rats with Bact-DNA in MLNs without GBT, intestinal and MLNs CD103(+) -DCs showed features of activation, expansion of the proinflammatory CD4(+) -DC subpopulation, augmented TNF-α production, and increased phagocytic and migratory capacities. In contrast, in rats with GBT, CD103(+) -DCs showed the absence of an activated phenotype, lowered TNF-α production, and relatively deficient phagocytosis and migration capacities. The CD103(+) -DC of rats without Bact-DNA in MLNs or GBT were similar to controls. In cirrhotic rats, bowel decontamination with antibiotics eliminated Bact-DNA in MLNs and GBT, normalized the activation state and functions of CD103(+) -DCs, and increased their TNF-α production. CONCLUSION In experimental cirrhosis with ascites, continuous pressure of gut bacteria shapes the phenotypic and functional profile of intestinal DCs to produce effects that range from their activation and enhanced functions to their exhaustion and tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Muñoz
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Cirrhosis is a major health problem, being the 5th cause of death in the U.K. and 12th in the U.S., but 4th in the 45 to 54 age group. Until recently cirrhosis was considered a single and terminal disease stage, with an inevitably poor prognosis. However, it is now clear that 1-year mortality can range from 1% in early cirrhosis to 57% in decompensated disease. As the only treatment for advanced cirrhosis is liver transplantation, what is urgently needed is strategies to prevent transition to decompensated stages. The evidence we present in this review clearly demonstrates that management of patients with cirrhosis should change from an expectant algorithm that treats complications as they occur, to preventing the advent of all complications while in the compensated phase. This requires maintaining patients in an asymptomatic phase and not significantly affecting their quality of life with minimal impairment due to the therapies themselves. This could be achieved with lifestyle changes and combinations of already licensed and low-cost drugs, similar to the paradigm of treating risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The drugs are propranolol, simvastatin, norfloxacin, and warfarin, which in combination would cost £128/patient annually-equivalent to U.S. $196/year. This treatment strategy requires randomized controlled trials to establish improvements in outcomes. In the 21st century, cirrhosis should be regarded as a potentially treatable disease with currently available and inexpensive therapies.
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Beta-adrenergic receptor 1 selective antagonism inhibits norepinephrine-mediated TNF-alpha downregulation in experimental liver cirrhosis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43371. [PMID: 22916250 PMCID: PMC3423372 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bacterial translocation is a frequent event in cirrhosis leading to an increased inflammatory response. Splanchnic adrenergic system hyperactivation has been related with increased bacterial translocation. We aim at evaluating the interacting mechanism between hepatic norepinephrine and inflammation during liver damage in the presence of bacterial-DNA. ANIMALS AND METHODS Forty-six mice were included in a 16-week protocol of CCl(4)-induced cirrhosis. Laparotomies were performed at weeks 6, 10, 13 and 16. A second set of forty mice injected with a single intraperitoneal dose of CCl(4) was treated with saline, 6-hydroxidopamine, Nebivolol or Butoxamine. After 5 days, mice received E. coli-DNA intraperitoneally. Laparotomies were performed 24 hours later. Liver bacterial-DNA, norepinephrine, TNF-alpha, IL-6 and beta-adrenergic receptor levels were measured. RESULTS Bacterial-DNA translocation was more frequent in CCl(4)-treated animals compared with controls, and increased as fibrosis progressed. Liver norepinephrine and pro-inflammatory cytokines were significantly higher in mice with vs without bacterial-DNA (319.7 ± 120.6 vs 120.7 ± 68.6 pg/g for norepinephrine, 38.4 ± 6.1 vs 29.7 ± 4.2 pg/g for TNF-alpha, 41.8 ± 7.4 vs 28.7 ± 4.3 pg/g for IL-6). Only beta-adrenergic receptor-1 was significantly increased in treated vs control animals (34.6 ± 7.3 vs 12.5 ± 5.3, p=0.01) and correlated with TNF-alpha, IL-6 and norepinephrine hepatic levels in animals with bacterial-DNA. In the second set of mice, cytokine levels were increased in 6-hydroxidopamine and Nebivolol (beta-adrenergic receptor-1 antagonist) treated mice compared with saline. Butoxamine (beta-adrenergic receptor-2 antagonist) didn't inhibit liver norepinephrine modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. CONCLUSIONS Beta-adrenergic receptor-1 mediates liver norepinephrine modulation of the pro-inflammatory response in CCl(4)-treated mice with bacterial-DNA.
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Ilan Y. Leaky gut and the liver: A role for bacterial translocation in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:2609-18. [PMID: 22690069 PMCID: PMC3369997 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i21.2609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2011] [Revised: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 04/21/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut flora and bacterial translocation (BT) play important roles in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and its complications. Intestinal bacterial overgrowth and increased bacterial translocation of gut flora from the intestinal lumen predispose patients to bacterial infections, major complications and also play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disorders. Levels of bacterial lipopolysaccharide, a component of gram-negative bacteria, are increased in the portal and/or systemic circulation in several types of chronic liver disease. Impaired gut epithelial integrity due to alterations in tight junction proteins may be the pathological mechanism underlying bacterial translocation. Preclinical and clinical studies over the last decade have suggested a role for BT in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Bacterial overgrowth, immune dysfunction, alteration of the luminal factors, and altered intestinal permeability are all involved in the pathogenesis of NASH and its complications. A better understanding of the cell-specific recognition and intracellular signaling events involved in sensing gut-derived microbes will help in the development of means to achieve an optimal balance in the gut-liver axis and ameliorate liver diseases. These may suggest new targets for potential therapeutic interventions for the treatment of NASH. Here, we review some of the mechanisms connecting BT and NASH and potential therapeutic developments.
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Senzolo M, Nadal E, Cholongitas E, Burroughs AK. Is hydrophobia necessary for the hepatologist prescribing nonselective beta-blockers in cirrhosis? Hepatology 2011; 53:2149-50. [PMID: 21400554 DOI: 10.1002/hep.24176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Senzolo
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Elena Nadal
- Multivisceral Transplant Unit, Department of Surgical and Gastroenterological Sciences, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Evangelos Cholongitas
- The Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre and Department of Surgery UCL and Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Andrew K. Burroughs
- The Royal Free Sheila Sherlock Liver Centre and Department of Surgery UCL and Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
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